El-Rufai Seeks NSA Explanation On Toxic Chemical Procurement
The immediate past governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, has asked the Office of the National Security Adviser to clarify what he described as information available to opposition figures regarding the alleged procurement of a toxic chemical substance.
El-Rufai, in a letter dated January 30, 2026 and addressed to the National Security Adviser in Abuja, said he was seeking “clarification and reassurance” over reports that the office planned to obtain thallium sulphate from abroad.
A copy of the letter was posted on the X handle of the African Democratic Congress chieftain on Sunday.
The former governor noted that the substance is regarded as dangerous and tightly regulated, stressing the need for transparency.
“I am writing as a concerned citizen to seek clarification and reassurance regarding information available to the political opposition leadership about a procurement of approximately 10 kilograms of Thallium Sulphate by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), reportedly from a supplier in Poland.
“Given that thallium salts are highly toxic and tightly controlled substances, I believe it is important – for public safety, democratic accountability and for maintaining public trust – to confirm the following details”, the letter partly read.
He listed six areas where he wants explanations, including “the intended purpose and end-use of the imported thallium sulphate, the identity of the supplier and whether the importation followed due authorisation, the quantity and concentration involved, storage arrangements, and the regulatory oversight and coordination in place with NAFDAC, NCDC, and relevant public-health and environmental agencies.”
El-Rufai also asked, “whether any public-health risk assessments or hazard-mitigation plans have been developed, given the compound’s extreme toxicity.”
El-Rufai said the request was not made in bad faith, arguing that openness would strengthen trust in public institutions.
He further requested continued engagement from the security office.
“I want to stress that this inquiry is made in good faith, solely to ensure that due processes, safety standards, and transparency are observed.
“Public confidence in the integrity of national institutions is strengthened when potential risks are openly addressed and managed.
“If possible, I would appreciate a response or a point of contact within your office for further engagement to reassure those of us that are Nigerian citizens in opposition,” the letter added.
For completeness, he said copies of the correspondence were sent to other relevant authorities.
“For completeness, I am copying this correspondence to NAFDAC and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), both of which play essential roles in chemical safety and public-health preparedness,” he said.
Olamilekan Adigun is a graduate of Mass Communication with years of experience in journalism embedded in uncovering human interest stories. He also prioritises accuracy and factual reportage of issues.
